Toyota is rumored to debut a new compact SUV, the Land Cruiser FJ, in late 2024, with deliveries in Japan set to commence in the spring of 2025, followed by a global rollout. The vehicle is expected to uphold the exceptional off-road capabilities associated with the Land Cruiser nameplate, sitting on a ladder frame chassis to unlock its full potential for adventure-seekers.
The ‘baby’ Land Cruiser FJ first made its appearance in an official teaser in August 2023, positioned as the smallest member of the range alongside the classic 70 and the modern 250 and 300 series. Recent trademark filings have sparked rumors about the use of the Land Cruiser FJ nameplate for the compact off-roader, positioning it to compete with the Ford Bronco Sport.
Unlike its Ford counterpart, the Land Cruiser FJ is expected to retain a robust ladder frame underpinning shared with the Toyota Hilux Champ pickup, preserving its heritage and enabling an affordable price point. This approach is aimed at offering enhanced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) characteristics and driving dynamics compared to the LCV, which prioritizes affordability in emerging markets.
Reports suggest that the Land Cruiser FJ may feature non-electrified naturally aspirated powertrains, although these details remain speculative at this stage. As the debut date approaches, anticipation continues to build for this new addition to the Land Cruiser family, promising off-road enthusiasts a compelling option in the compact SUV segment.
